Axis Disabled Persons Toilet System
Why is it that disabled people are deemed to need an automatic door to access retail outlets, offices, schools, hospitals, etc. but, when it comes to toilets they are usually expected to be able to open the door unaided? And to make matters worse, those doors are larger and therefore heavier than standard doors in order to more readily accommodate wheelchairs.
All the handrails, low level fittings, extra space and infra-red taps are of little use if you can't get in!
Yet the solution is so simple
Exit doors at Stratford Garden Centre
The Disabled Persons Toilet System from Axis Automatic Entrance Systems consists of an Axis Swing Door Operator that can automate virtually any swing door; new or existing. It effortlessly provides a full range of automatic door functions to an otherwise manual door. The operating mechanism is installed on to the door frame in place of a conventional closer and works with virtually any door up to 1120mm wide! Its versatility means it can be either full or low energy in operation and is non-handed so can be used for right or left handed doors with minimal field adjustments. Sliding Door operators are also available.
So an automated door will mean a disabled person can gain easy access to the toilet. That just leaves one vital issue. You need to make sure they can lock the door to maintain their privacy. The DPTS consists of internal and external touch sensors and a controller. They are used in conjunction with an electromagnetic lock or electric strike as mechanical locks can present problems to some disabled people who may lack the dexterity needed to operate them. The preferred locking methods are electromagnetic lock or electric strike for swing doors and electronic solenoid locks for sliding doors.
ENTRY & EXIT SENSORS
Touch Switch technology means sensor can be operated without 'Touch', even when user is wearing gloves
Colourful and aesthetically pleasing signage
'Ultra-bright' LED to assist users with visual impairments
HOW IT WORKS
If not engaged the Touch Sensors indicator will be illuminated in blue
STEP 1 - ENTRY
Touch entry sensor and the door opener will activate to provide access or enter manually.
Step 2 interior Interior display
STEP 2 - LOCK
When inside the toilet, touch the internal sensor to lock the door. To confirm the door is locked, both the internal and external buttons turn red and entry is inhibited. (NB Keyed override is still available.)
STEP 3 - EXIT
Touch the internal button once more and the indicator turns blue, the door will be unlocked and the door opener activated. The entry button becomes operable once again to provide access.
To prevent any accidental locking and disengaging of the entry sensor a door contact is wired in series with the internal touch switch to prevent accidental triggering on departure. A break glass and key switch can be incorporated to override the system in an emergency. As with all automatic doors, installation should be carried out by engineers qualified to EN16005:2012 (formerly BS7036:1996 - Code of Practice for safety at powered doors for pedestrian use).
It's so easy to overlook the need to think across different aspects of the Equality Act. The need for automatic doors on entrances and, increasingly, internal doors is so obvious. So is the need for disabled facilities wherever toilets are provided to members of the public or company staff. Why have so few organisations put the two principals together to provide truly comprehensive facilities?